Thursday, July 2 | Volume 40 No.16

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

Logan Wells Makes History as 2nd African American to Be Crowned Miss South Carolina's Teen, Advances to Miss America's Teen Competition

Columbia, South Carolina Native, Scholar, Athlete, and Nonprofit

Columbia, S.C. - Logan Wells, a rising senior from Columbia, South Carolina, has been crowned Miss South Carolina's Teen, be- coming just the second African American woman to earn the title in the past 24 years. Her historic victory follows the groundbreak- ing achievement of Danielle Wil- son, who was crowned in 2002 and remained the only African American titleholder until Wells' recent win.

Wells will now represent South Carolina on the national stage as she competes for the title of Miss America's Teen this September.

A passionate advocate for ser- vice, leadership, and youth en- gagement, Wells is the founder of Fresh Friends, a 501(c)(3) non- profit organization dedicated to promoting volunteerism among

In California, about one in every ten babies is born too early. But for Black women, the risk of giving birth early- called preterm birth-are nearly twice as high. Early births can mean more health risks for both the baby and the mother.

That's why the Black Infant Health (BIH) program is such a vital resource in our community.

BIH recognizes that racism, economic stress, and where you live can all affect a mother's health and her baby's chance of survival.

young people and creating mean- ingful connections through com- munity service. Since launching the organization in 2024, Fresh Friends has engaged students from multiple schools in ser- vice initiatives throughout South Carolina. The organization was recently recognized at the South Carolina Statehouse, where its volunteers received resolutions from both the South Carolina House of Representatives and Senate for their contributions to the community. Governor Henry McMaster recently signed a proc- lamation to proclaim August 2026 as Fresh Friends Community Ser- vice Month.

"Winning the title of Miss South Carolina's Teen is truly a dream

See "Logan..." page 7 black infant health

Empowering Pregnant and Mothering Black Women

The program offers a free, culturally supportive program for Black and African American women. If you're a Black woman who is pregnant or has had a baby in the last six months, BIH is for you, regardless of your income. Program participants can earn essentials like diapers, clothes, baby supplies, and safe sleep supplies.

Founder is 2nd Titleholder in 24 Years

Rallying Around Sisters

PERINATAL EQUITY IN SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY

Miss Sout

BIH is more than just classes. It's a community where you can build friendships, gain confidence, and feel seen and heard by someone that cares about you. If you or someone you know is pregnant or has a newborn, reach out. These programs are free, supportive, and grounded in love, respect, and culture.

Together, we can build healthy beginnings for Black families. For more information, visit dph.sbcounty.gov/bih or call 844-352-3985.

• SAN BERNARDINO
• Public Health
• COUNTY